U

ultrasound - Using high-frequency sound waves to show visual outlines of internal body structures (e.g., fat thickness, rib-eye area, and pregnancy can be predicted). The machine sends sound waves into the animal and records these waves as they bounce off the tissues. Different wavelengths are recorded for fat and lean.

umbilical cord - Cord through which arteries and veins travel from the fetus to and from the placenta, respectively. This cord is broken when the young are born.

uncoupling - Term used to consider separating quality grading and yield grading.

unsoundness - Any defect or injury that interferes with the usefulness of an animal.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - An executive department of the U.S. government that helps farmers supply farm products for U.S. consumers and overseas markets. See Appendix for organizational structure.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) - Organization that works to increase consumer demand for red meats and by-products in overseas markets. Members include NCA, state cattle associations, beef councils, farm and commodity groups, packers, agribusiness companies. Funds come from its members and the USDA.

uterus - That portion of the female reproductive tract where the young develop during pregnancy.